Skip to content

Rigid ankle taping is commonly used to provide support, stability, and protection for the ankle joint. It is especially beneficial for managing injuries such as sprains or preventing further injury during physical activity. Follow these step-by-step instructions for safe and effective application of rigid tape.

Materials Needed

  • Rigid sports tape (38 mm wide is commonly used).
  • Pre-wrap or hypoallergenic underwrap (optional for sensitive skin).
  • Scissors or tape cutter.

Preparation

  1. Position the Foot:
    • The person being taped should sit comfortably with their leg extended.
    • The ankle should be in a neutral position (90° angle between the foot and shin). Avoid excessive pointing (plantarflexion) or lifting (dorsiflexion) of the toes.
  2. Skin Preparation:
    • Clean the skin and ensure it is dry and free of oils or lotions.
    • Shave the area if necessary to minimise discomfort during tape removal.
    • Apply hypoallergenic underwrap if the skin is sensitive or prone to irritation.

Demonstration

Step-by-Step Taping Instructions

1. Anchor Strips:

  • Begin by applying two anchor strips around the lower calf, approximately 10 cm above the ankle joint.

2. Stirrup Strips:

  • Starting on the inner side of the calf anchor, pull the tape down under the heel and up to the outer calf anchor.
  • Apply two stirrup strips, overlapping each by half the tape width, to provide lateral (side-to-side) support.

5. Heel Lock:

  • Start on one side of the ankle, wrap the tape around the back of the heel, and bring it back up to the opposite side.
  • Repeat on the other side of the ankle.
  • This technique helps secure the heel and limits unwanted movement.

6. Figure-6 Pattern:

  • Starting on the inside of the ankle, bring the tape across the front of the foot, under the arch, and back up to the starting side.
  • Repeat in the opposite direction to cover both sides of the ankle.

7. Close-Up Strips:

  • Use short strips to fill in any gaps and secure the edges of the tape.
  • Ensure all layers are smooth and firmly adhered, with no wrinkles or loose sections.

8. Final Anchor:

  • Reapply an anchor strip around the lower calf to secure the stirrups and finish the taping.

Self-taping:

  • Taping differs slightly depending if lateral (outside) ligaments are damaged, or medial (inside) ligaments are damaged.
  • This video showcases taping for LATERAL (outside) tears. Medial (inside) tears are very similar.
  • LATERAL (outside) ligament tears:
    • As per video.
    • Hold the ankle with the toes pointed towards you, and to the outside.
    • Most layers of tape are pulled from inside to outside.
  • MEDIAL (inside) ligament tears:
    • Opposite of video.
    • Hold the ankle with the toes pointed towards you, and to the inside.
    • Pull in opposite direction, ie if video starts on the inside and pulls to the outside, then start on the inside and pull to the outside.

Level 1 – Figure 6

  1. Pull ankle towards you, and roll toes outwards. This places the ligament in a shortened position.
    • Roll toes inwards if your injury is on the inside of the ankle.
  2. Wrap a layer of tape around the leg, just above the ankle.
  3. 2-3 x stirrups: Start inside, pull down and back around up to the opposite side. Repeat 2-3 times, until the bony part of the ankle is covered.
  4. 2 x lateral figure 6’s: Start inside and pull down, underneath the foot. Once on the other side, pull the tape across the top of the foot, back to where you started.
  5. 1 x medial figure 6: Start outside and pull down, underneath the foot. Once on the other side, pull the tape across the top of the foot, back to where to started.
  6. Repeat step 2, to hold tape in place.
  7. If requiring more support, continue to video 2

Level 2 – Heel Lock / Figure 8

  • If you require more support than Level 1, complete Level 1 video and then progress to a heel lock to add more support.
  1. Start on the outside. Pull behind the ankle diagonally, across the Achilles. Continue pulling down diagonally, wrapping underneath the foot. Pull straight back up and place the tape down where you started.
  2. Start on the inside. Pull behind the ankle diagonally, across the Achilles. Continue pulling down diagonally, wrapping underneath the foot. Pull straight back up and place the tape down where you started.

Precautions

  • If you have any itchiness, redness or pain take the tape off as it could cause a reaction.
  • If you have access, place a layer of hyperfix underlay tape down first to protect the skin.
  • Taping will only last for 2-3 days.

Post-Taping Checks

  • Comfort: Ensure the person being taped can move their toes freely, and there is no numbness, tingling, or pain.
  • Circulation: Check for signs of restricted blood flow, such as discolouration or swelling in the toes.
  • Functionality: The taping should feel supportive and stable, limiting excessive movement without being overly restrictive.

Tips for Effective Taping

  • Avoid excessive tension when applying the tape to prevent discomfort or circulation issues.
  • Overlap each strip by about half its width to create a secure and durable taping job.
  • Practice the technique multiple times to improve efficiency and precision.
  • Remove tape after use to avoid skin irritation. Use adhesive remover or soak the tape in warm water if necessary.

Information is provided for education purposes only. Always consult your physiotherapist or other health professional before applying taping techniques.